Laos promotes coffee growing to boost livelihoods

VIENTIANE, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- Laos is promoting coffee growing to improve rural livelihoods and boost the country's agricultural production.

More than 800 families in northern Laos' Huaphan province have shifted from opium poppy cultivation to coffee farming, planting 800 hectares of coffee trees and generating exports worth over 1.37 million U.S. dollars. The transition has also supported the rehabilitation of 100 former opium addicts, according to a report from the Lao-UN Opium Replacement Development Project, published during a meeting on Nov. 6 to summarize the project's achievements and set future directions.

The project was carried out in 38 villages across the province, providing sustainable alternatives to opium cultivation through livelihood development, improved food security, and drug rehabilitation services. From 2017 to 2025, farmers received high-quality coffee seeds, organic fertilizer, nursery equipment, and training.

To boost quality and market access, the initiative also funded roasting facilities, drying sheds, and water reservoirs in 12 villages. From 2021 to 2025, 12 containers of coffee were exported, generating more than 1.37 million dollars in revenue.

Laos is working with its partners to expand coffee cultivation in parts of the country, aiming to increase production, ensure a stable supply for both domestic and export markets, and promote modern, clean, safe, and quality-focused farming practices for sustainable development.

To boost the skills of coffee producers, the Lao government, with development partners, has launched training programs covering production, processing, packaging, and marketing. The programs provide hands-on experience and strengthen knowledge of business management, cost control, and value addition.

Laos hosts annual events to promote coffee, including the International Coffee and Tea Day 2025, which drew more than 6,400 participants to northern Laos' Luang Prabang in early October 2025. The event highlighted coffee and tea as key drivers of sustainable growth and agricultural development.

In his speech, Lao Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Chanthakhone Boualaphanh praised Lao coffee for its high quality and distinctive taste, noting its recognition in international competitions.

Also speaking at the event, Lao Deputy Governor of Luang Prabang province Siliphone Suphonthong emphasized coffee's role in improving local livelihoods and sustainability.

Coffee and tea are among Laos' top agricultural exports, supporting rural income and employment. In 2024, Laos exported over 50,000 tons of coffee, earning more than 100 million dollars.■